Types of Research Opportunities

Below are some of the available research trials in the Atlanta area. If you’re interested in participating, please fill out the form on this page, and we’ll be in touch to gather information to determine your eligibility for the various trials.

A ‘study partner’ such as a spouse or caregiver may need to be involved in some of the studies. Clinical trials may last from several months to several years, to study the long-term impact of various medications. The studies listed below are being conducted by Emory University and will be based in the Atlanta area.

Prevention Trials

DIAN A 2-year study of individuals who either have no symptoms, or only Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), but who have a certain disease-causing genetic mutation or a parent or sibling with the mutation. A series of cognitive tests will determine the initial onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms. Two different drugs will be administered over a 2-year period, and biological data from MRI, PET, CSF and blood will be measured.

Mild Cognitive Impairment Trials

Atomoxetine For those already diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), this study will test the impact of Atomoxetine on thinking and behavior, as well as on substances in the body that may indicate the presence of Alzheimer’s. Effects will be carefully examined at various dosage levels to determine the optimal dosage.

BAN2401 An 18-month study for people who have either MCI due to Alzheimer’s, or mild Alzheimer’s disease. The impact of the biweekly medication and the proper dosage will be the subject of the research. Data will be gathered from cognitive tests as well as from MRI, PET, CSF and blood tests.

APECS This is a 2-year study to determine the effectiveness and safety of the medication MK-8931 for people with MCI. Cognitive tests will be used to determine any improvements achieved through this once-a-day medication.

Alzheimer’s Disease Trials

Starshine For those with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s, this study will document the effectiveness of combining a new drug with with donepezil (Aricept). After 6 months of daily medication, the impact of the combined medications will be determined through cognitive tests.

EPOCH For those at least 55 years old with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, this study will study the effectiveness and safety of a medication known as MK-8931. Results will be determined through cognitive tests, as well as dilated eye exams and MRIs.

Alzheimer’s Disease Trials

TauRx A 1-year study of individuals who have been diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia, a rare disorder associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Participants will need to visit the clinic 10 times over a 60-week period for cognitive testing, as well as MRI, blood draws, pulse oximetry, and neurological and physical examinations. The purpose of the study is to test the effectiveness of the drug Methyltioninium.

Cardiovascular Disease Studies

ASCEND A 3-year trial for those who have no symptoms, but have a family history of Alzheimer’s. Cardiovascular factors, such as blood flow, will be studied to see if they may be related to Alzheimer’s disease. Participants will come to Emory University one time per year for three years. Cognitive assessments will be made, and participants will be required to wear a blood pressure monitor for one 24-hour period. Additional procedures include vascular ultrasound, lumbar puncture and MRI scans.

CALIBREX This 1-year study is for people over 60 years old with high blood pressure and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Researchers will examine the relationship between hypertension medications and factors associated with Alzheimer’s. Participants will come to Emory at least 5 times during the 1-year study period for the following procedures: vascular ultrasound, MRI, cognitive testing, and blood draws. Participants will also take a medication for high blood pressure.

Pilot Studies

NeuroVision A brief, 4-day study of the effects of ingesting the spice curcumin. It is open to those with no cognitive symptoms, as well as those with MCI or Alzheimer’s. Participants will undergo a dialated eye exam at the beginning and the end of this brief period.

Caregiver Research

Tele-Savvy This 6-week study is for primary caregivers of those with Young-Onset Alzheimer’s. You must have access to a home computer. The purpose is to test the Tele-Savvy program, which is designed to decrease stress and increase confidence for caregivers. Participants will review a detailed caregiver manual, view brief daily instructional videos online, and participate in weekly videoconferences. Questionnaires will need to be completed at the beginning and end of the study.